Networking in AV Without Being That Guy

Nobody in AV got their best gig from a LinkedIn cold message. The work comes from people you've worked with before — or people they vouch for. Here's how to build that web of relationships without making it weird.

Show up and be good

This is 80% of networking. When you're on a show and you're competent, reliable, and easy to work with, every person on that crew becomes a potential referral. The A1 who watches you solve a ground loop in 90 seconds will remember you next time they need an A2.

Learn names

It sounds obvious, but most people don't do it. Learn the production manager's name. Learn the client's name. Learn the name of the stagehand who helped you run cable. Use their names when you talk to them. People hire people they feel connected to.

Follow up once, then stop

After a good show, one message is appropriate: "Hey, great working with you on the XYZ show. I'm around if you need crew for future events." That's it. Don't follow up again. Don't add them to a mailing list. Don't pitch yourself. One message, then let the work speak.

Be the person who says yes

"Can you also run the graphics laptop?" Yes. "Do you know anyone who does projection?" Yes, and here's their number. "Can you come in a day early for programming?" Yes. The person who says yes to reasonable requests gets the call first next time.

Don't trash-talk other techs

The AV world is small. The person you complain about to a PM today might be that PM's best friend. If someone asks about another tech, either say something true and positive or say nothing at all.

Show up to industry events

InfoComm, LDI, local IATSE meetings, AVIXA chapter events. Not for the panels (though some are good) — for the hallway conversations. One beer with a production manager at LDI is worth more than 50 online applications.

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The best networkers in AV don't think of it as networking. They think of it as doing good work and being someone people want to work with again. Everything else follows.